Edukacja w gitarowej muzyce klasycznej i muzyce popularnej

Krzysztof Jusiak

doi:10.16926/

Published: 12.02.2026 10.02.2026

Vol. 20 (2025)

Music Education of the Classical and Jazz Guitarist – Analogies and Differences

Krzysztof Jusiak

Abstract

The aim of this article is to outline the essential differences in the learning process of classical and popular guitar music. It describes the educational goals of music schools and the methods of learning to play the classical and electric guitar. Attention is drawn to the differences in tone production between the two instruments, as well as to the types of musical material studied by students during their education. The article presents the contrasting approaches to learning the fundamental elements of music in both styles of playing. These differences stem from the distinct construction of the instruments, the methods of producing sound, and the specific purposes of each musical genre. The discussion covers such aspects as learning notes, fingering, phrasing, articulation, tone production, sight-reading, harmony and improvisation. The text also describes techniques characteristic to each instrument. It highlights issues found in classical guitar education and in popular-music training that have different meanings for the performer – among them arpeggios and scales. Finally, the article discusses the skills and qualities of a trained classical guitarist and a popular-music guitarist, and the benefits of broadening one’s repertoire with works inspired by both classical and popular music.

Keywords:

classical guitar, electric guitar, classical music, popular music, music education

How to Cite

Music Education of the Classical and Jazz Guitarist – Analogies and Differences. (2026). Edukacja Muzyczna (Musical Education) , 20, 277-313. https://doi.org/10.16926/